Naval Station Guantanamo Bay's (NSGB) Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) held its first Child and Youth Programs (CYP) Appreciation Banquet, Nov. 17, in the Windjammer Ballroom.

The free event was a semi-formal affair that went above and beyond all expectations for the many families that attended. From the moment the 312 guests entered the beautifully decorated ballroom, they were treated to delicious appetizers, their choice of filet mignon, chicken marsala, or pasta, and desserts, all presented at their formal place settings. For many of the young children attending, the night marked their first chance to attend such a banquet. The children were on their best behavior at each table around the room and many were excited to drink out of glassware and be served their dinner on china.

The CYP Appreciation Banquet was held as a way to recognize and thank all staff and volunteers for their dedication, commitment and service to the programs. It also provided the opportunity to recognize NSGB's Military Youth of the Year and Junior Youth of the Year for their hard work and diligence. NSGB's National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) Parent and Coach of the Year were also recognized at the event.

"Our staff and volunteers give us more than we could ever repay," said Waylend Reed, director, NSGB MWR CYP Youth Sports and Fitness. "My vision was to give back to them in a classy manner. Recognition is important and goes a long way when it comes to keeping morale high. I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel! This is what I live by."

In addition to the recognition portion of the evening, Youth Sports and Fitness Dance participants involved in Musical Theater and Flamenco put on a recital as their end of season project.

"There were so many great moments that defined the night, but I would say that the dancers stole the show," said Reed.

Such a large event does not happen without a great deal of planning. Making the banquet come to life took careful planning and coordination with MWR Food and Beverage, as well as the many staff and volunteers associated with CYP.

"Jon Gilligan, Joyce Faminialan and Scott Houser helped me coordinate, facilitate and execute a successful event," said Reed. "Brittney Cook and Brooke Phillips coordinated invitations, plating assignments, table decorations, and assisted the dance instructor, Madison Troy. The CYP administrator, Karen Sloan, provided guidance and direction to fund this wonderful event."

Although the banquet was a first for NSGB, it was one of the largest ever held at the installation. Due to its overwhelming success, MWR CYP is looking to make the CYP Appreciation Banquet an annual event.

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